Oregon Motorcycle Licensing
Motorcycle License Endorsements, Training & Insurance
The content below is for informational purposes and was last updated as of March 2026. For the most up-to-date information, please consult the Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (DMV) and the Motorcycle & Moped Manual.
What Qualifies as a Motorcycle in Oregon?
Oregon law defines a motorcycle as a vehicle that has a seat or saddle for the rider’s use and is designed to travel with no more than three (3) wheels in contact with the ground.
Motorcycle Operator Requirements
The requirements to operate a motorcycle in Oregon include:
- Meet the minimum age requirement (16 years old).
- Parental consent if under the age of 18.
- Hold a valid Oregon driver’s license.
- Complete a Team Oregon motorcycle rider education course. Depending on the course you take, you may also have to pass the DMV knowledge test.
- Maintain insurance coverage that meets Oregon’s minimum requirements.
Tests Required to Obtain Motorcycle Endorsement
In order to obtain a motorcycle endorsement in Oregon, you must take and pass a series of exams. The exams include:
- Vision screening.
- Knowledge exam consisting of 20 questions.
- Skills exam, which is waived if you take and pass an approved Team Oregon course.
If you have a valid endorsement from another state, you can waive the knowledge and skills test requirements.
Penalties for Riding Unendorsed
It is illegal to ride a motorcycle in Oregon with a valid motorcycle endorsement. Operating a motorcycle without an endorsement is a Class A traffic violation.
Motorcycle Education & Training in Oregon
Team Oregon is the only approved provider for motorcycle rider education courses in Oregon. Individuals under the age of 21 must complete a Team Oregon basic course before applying for an endorsement, and individuals over 21 years must complete a basic or intermediate course before applying for an endorsement.
Team Oregon Course Types:
- Basic Rider Course (ages 16+): waives knowledge and skills tests.
- Intermediate Course (ages 21+): waives skills test only.
- Basic Online Classroom (ages 16+): waives skills test only.
- Intermediate Online Classroom (ages 21+): waives skills test only.
Riders who complete an approved course may be eligible for an insurance premium discount for their motorcycle.
Motorcycle Insurance in Oregon
Oregon requires motorcycle liability insurance for any registered motorcycle used on public roadways.
Bodily Injury & Property Damage Minimum Liability Coverage Requirements:
- $25,000 per person
- $50,000 per collision for bodily injury to others
- $20,000 per collision of damage to property of others
You must also carry uninsured motorist coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per collision for bodily injury.
Registration Requirements
To register your motorcycle, you must also provide proof of compliance with U.S. standards if your motorcycle is imported or is not one of the major manufacturers recognized by the DMV.
Major Motorcycle Manufacturers Recognized by the DMV:
- Aprilia
- BMW
- Bombadier
- Buell
- Ducati
- Harley Davidson
- Honda
- Kawasaki
- Moto Guzzi
- Norton
- Piaggio
- Suzuki
- Triumph
- Vespa
- Victory
- Yamaha
Helmet & Safety Notes
- All riders and passengers must wear helmets approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- You should wear face and eye protection.
- You should wear protective riding gear, such as long sleeved shirt, jacket and sturdy footwear.
Next Steps
By now, you should have a solid understanding of how to obtain an Oregon motorcycle endorsement — from testing requirements to insurance and registration rules.
If you’re a new rider or a new resident shopping for motorcycle insurance, click here or call 833-70-RIDER to get a quote in minutes, and make sure you have the right coverage before hitting the road.
Disclaimer: This article has been provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is based on the most reliable information available as of the date of publication. Motorcycle laws are subject to change. For legal guidance and to ensure you have the most up-to-date information, please consult qualified legal counsel or your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
The OR DMV requires motorcyclists to have current coverage that meets the state’s minimum requirements on all registered vehicles. Before riding in Oregon, make sure your coverage meets the state’s requirements.
To make sure you have the right coverage at the right price, come see what Rider can do for you.
Want to find out more about motorcycle coverage requirements in other states?
